Israel’s ambassador says beeper operation will ‘seem simple’ compared to what is planned for Iran
Israel’s Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter has hinted at some upcoming surprises in the Jewish State’s conflict with Iran that will surpass previous operations involving the detonation of pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah members in Lebanon and Syria. In a recent appearance on the TV network Merit Street, Leiter mentioned that these surprises will make the previous beeper operation seem simple in comparison.
The beeper operation, which took place on September 17 last year, involved the near-simultaneous explosions of pagers used by members of the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group in Lebanon and Syria. This resulted in the deaths of at least 12 people, including two children, and left nearly 3,000 individuals wounded. The following day, a similar attack using walkie-talkies caused at least 25 fatalities and over 600 injuries in the region.
Israel was later revealed to be behind these attacks, utilizing small amounts of explosives hidden within the devices to cause the detonations. Although the U.S. government was briefed by Israel after the incidents, then-Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the U.S. was not aware of or involved in these operations.
In a video message recorded outside the Situation Room at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., Leiter emphasized that Israel’s goal is not regime change but rather neutralizing the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear weaponization and ballistic missile programs. He highlighted Israel’s efforts to dismantle Iran’s surface-to-surface missile systems and disrupt the regime’s propaganda campaigns, including targeting Tehran’s broadcast center.
Despite ongoing conflict, Leiter reassured that Israel’s economy remains robust and resilient, with the stock market showing signs of strength. He also mentioned the country’s efforts to assist individuals stranded in Israel or seeking to return amidst the turmoil.
As tensions escalate between Israel and Iran, Leiter’s comments suggest that more unconventional tactics may be employed to address the security threats posed by Iran. The international community will be closely watching for any developments in this complex and volatile situation.
